American Music: Born in the USA American Music: Born in the USA A History of American Music ISBN: 978-0-9861109-7-9 Print book $24.99 I am offering bookstores 40% discount. Contact me for more information or a sample PDF. The book is a 230 page book with color photos of many places related to music history. Autographed copies can be arranged. There is an eBook version.

They Brought the Seeds

    When early settlers came to America they often brought few material items, but they brought many customs, traditions, and music of their homeland here. These things, mainly the music took root in America's soil and grew.
    These emigrants came for many different reasons. Some came to escape poverty and find a better life. Some were forced out of their homeland by war. There were many who had no choice but were torn from their families and homes and brought here.
Unlike some versions of history state, this was not a land  just “discovered.”    
    There were indigenous groups with established cultures who had lived here for thousands of years. In spite of the misconception that all Indians wore feathers, lived in teepees, and had the same culture, Native American music and culture differed regionally and from tribe to tribe. They each had their own music as well.
    America really was a melting pot then. The music of Native Americans, white settlers, and the Black enslaved people mingled to create new forms and songs from Delta blues and “Hillbilly” music, to Rock. My biggest question is does the music reflect the culture, or does the culture reflect the music?
    This is the history of American music. From its birth in the 1700s through the 20th century. This is not the music of the elite, the operas, or the classics. It's the music of the people. It's not always a pretty story. Sometimes labor pains are hard, but in the end, it shouts loud and clear, 'I was Born in the USA!'

What others are saying about American Music: Born in the USA

I've had a fascination with music for most of my life.  I'm not gifted with the ability to play but I adore sitting back and listening to talented artists move me with their compositions.  What really helps me to enjoy the music is getting some knowledge on the artists and genre's that I listen to.  There's no doubt that American music vastly influences nations worldwide, and as seen in Kathleen's book, has been influenced by those brought to America.  Inside you'll find a diverse look at the different genres of American music along with their origins.  You'll need to set aside a few nights at least to complete the book. I found it very enjoyable and intend to read it again. 5 stars for American Music: Born in the USA: A history of American music. -- History Nerds, authors of Scáthach: Warrior Queen from the Isle of Skye and other books.

American Music: Born in the USA is an absolute must-read for anyone interested in music! This book is a comprehensive journey through the history of all genres of popular music in the USA. Author Kathleen Walls nicely combines an engaging storytelling style with personal anecdotes and memoir, along with meticulously thorough historical research, with the very pleasing result that after reading this short and easy to understand volume you will have learned a potted history of American musical knowledge while being thoroughly entertained. Not only is this book packed full of famous and lesser-known musicians, but there is an admirable gender balance; all too rare in an industry where women are still under-represented, and many female musicians have been forgotten and left out of history books. The book is packed full of interesting photos, which complement and add depth to the written content, bringing it alive.

Musicologists and fans, feast your eyes on this book. Also suitable for readers who are not very  knowledgeable about music, as in learning about it you will absorb much fascinating history of the development of American society and culture. Highly recommended. --Elise Baker author of Voices of Freedom

There are lots of wonderful information and stories in it! --Emily Epley Travel and Tourism Director for Cleveland County, NC

That's a tremendous undertaking. We all need a copy of her book. Pam Cox, Scott County,VA Tourism Director

I picked up this book on the history of American Music because I’m preparing for a trip to Louisiana in the fall. I’ve already explored jazz in New Orleans, but now I want to check out Lafayette and learn about Cajun and Zydeco music. After reading Katy Wall’s book, I’m confident I can create an itinerary for that trip. Since I’m a Michigander, I found her discussion of Motown interesting and on point. I recently visited the Motown Museum, which she discussed in her book. There’s so much to discover about the history of American Music. I can’t wait to explore beyond Louisiana and create a music lovers’ itinerary for other places around the United States. Her photos make the prospect of visiting these places so enticing. I’d highly recommend this book to music and history lovers alike.  Amy Piper, Author of Secret Michigan

American Music: Born in the USA takes you on an incredible journey through the rich history of music in our country—one that shines a spotlight on a legacy we should all take pride in. It’s a must-read for any music lover! The author’s thorough research uncovers so many fascinating, lesser-known details about some of my favorite genres and artists, and it also made me realize just how spot-on my taste in music really is. As an Ohioan with the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame right in my backyard, I was especially drawn to the chapters on Jazz, Country, the Outlaw movement, R&B and Soul, Motown, Rock and Roll, and Southern Rock. Each chapter deepened my appreciation for the artists and cultural movements that have shaped American music. I also appreciated how the author highlights key places to visit to learn more about these iconic performers. It’s a great guide for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the history and legacy of American music. Emily Molina Author of Tacoma's Tall Ship